© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
PHOENIX – After practice on Monday, Phoenix Suns star Jalen Green was open about his injury struggles this season, minute restriction, and how it has been very tough for him so far.
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Feb 7, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jalen Green (4) drives on Philadelphia 76ers guard Kelly Oubre Jr. (9) during the first half of an NBA game at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Jalen Green didn’t sound like a player frustrated about minutes; he sounded like someone grieving the unfortunate situation of his recent injuries. Mentioning how the game brings him joy, Green was visibly emotional when describing the longest absence of his basketball life.
Jalen Green talks about his injuries during this season:
“It’s been hard… just not being able to play is hard for me. That’s where I find a lot of my joy.”
Jalen Green on the emotional side of not being on the court as much as he’s used to, this season. pic.twitter.com/TCgNWRNlSm
— PHNX Suns (@PHNX_Suns) February 9, 2026
Jan 30, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix guard Green (4) against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The blockbuster trade that brought Jalen Green to Phoenix was supposed to bring a different edge. Pairing him with star shooting guard Devin Booker, Green was supposed to be the kinetic spark. Green, being a downhill scorer whose speed bends defenses and timelines, brings a different dynamic to Phoenix’s offense. Instead, hamstring issues have sidelined Green for a decent amount of time this season.
Jan 30, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix guard Jalen Green (4) reacts after suffering an injury against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
However, the emotional layer is where this season takes a turn. Green isn’t just rehabbing a leg; he’s rehabbing identity for this Suns franchise. Soft-tissue injuries are manageable long-term. The trade was never about immediate dominance; it was about extending Booker’s window with young, talented firepower on offense. Green’s comment cements how much the game truly means to him, and how much he embraces this opportunity they are in. Fans can not only get behind players who show that they care, but also understand the process that comes with certain hardships along the way.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
